Frequently Asked Questions
PFAS FAQs

PFAS are man-made chemicals developed in the 1950s.

PFAS cover a family of more than 10,000 synthetic compounds under the OECD 2021 definition. Fewer than 10% are in active commercial use, but the full class falls within the scope of the proposed EU universal restriction.

Source: ECHA PFAS hot-topic page; OECD Reconciling Terminology report (2021) ENV/CBC/MONO(2021)25; CIRS Group analysis of the updated ECHA proposal. 

They are characterised by multiple fluorine atoms attached to a carbon chain.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) defines PFAS as:
“Any substance that contains at least one fully fluorinated methyl (CF3-) or methylene (-CF2-) carbon atom (without any H/Cl/Br/I attached to it).”

PFAS are valued for their durability, heat resistance, and chemical stability. They are used across a wide range of industries, including cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam, outdoor clothing, and industrial cleaning.

No. PFAS molecules vary widely in their composition, behaviour, and environmental effects. Some key factors influencing their impact include:

• How they break down in the atmosphere
• The percentage of fluorination
• LD50 classification
• Global warming potential (GWP)
• Potential for bioaccumulation and soil mobility
• The way they are used and whether losses occur to air, drains, or abatement systems

Not all PFAS compounds pose the same level of risk, so a nuanced approach is needed.

PFAS are persistent in the environment, may bioaccumulate, and can vary in toxicity. Due to their stability, they are sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals,” raising concerns about long-term environmental and health impacts.

• There is no formal UK or EU legislation specifically banning PFAS in industrial uses such as precision cleaning.
• In January 2023, five countries (Norway, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden) proposed restrictions through the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
• The proposal remains under review, with no clear timeline for approval or implementation.
• Delays are largely due to the high volume of public feedback received during consultation.

August 2025: The updated proposal was published and solvents, catalysts and technical processes are now explicitly in scope.

2026 : SEAC draft opinion consultation with a duration of 60 days.

2026: By the end of the year RAC and SEAC opinions are due.

2027: Commission decision and/or regulation adopted.

Post-adoption: An 18-month transition period is expected, placing initial restrictions around late-2028 to mid-2029.
For industrial precision cleaning and other critical uses supported by ECHA’s Annex XV assessment, a 12-year derogation is strongly anticipated, reflecting the lack of technically and economically viable alternatives and providing regulatory certainty well into the late-2030s.

A full, immediate ban is unlikely given the widespread reliance on PFAS in critical industries. If regulations are introduced, they will probably:

• Be phased in gradually
• Start with the most toxic PFAS (e.g., hydrophobic and polar head group types)
• Focus first on products used by the public rather than industry

• Regulations are still uncertain and under review.
• Any restrictions will likely be implemented gradually.
• Industry exemptions are possible for essential applications.
• Businesses should expect the most harmful PFAS substances to be targeted first.

Yes. Some fluorinated solvents fall outside the current EU PFAS definition and are marketed as “PFAS-free.” However:

• These alternatives are new and less extensively tested compared to established products (e.g., Chemours™ solvents).
• Similar molecules can be classified differently (PFAS vs. non-PFAS) despite minor structural differences.
• There is a risk that current PFAS-free alternatives may be included in future regulations.

• Avoid rushing decisions until clearer regulatory guidance emerges.
• Evaluate your current processes and solvents carefully.
• Consider testing alternative solutions through controlled trials.
• Seek independent evaluations to balance performance, cost, environmental impact, and compliance.

With over 55 years of expertise, Fraser Technologies offers:

• Independent process evaluations
• PFAS-free and alternative technology assessments
• Tailored reports considering performance, sustainability, cost, and compliance
• Long-term partnership and support in navigating regulatory change.